Media regulator Ofcom has proposed new rules to make broadcasters responsible for the “wellbeing and dignity” of reality television participants.
The proposals follow the death of participant Steve Dymond, 63, in May, about a week after he failed a lie detector test on The Jeremy Kyle Show. The programme was subsequently axed by ITV.
Ofcom said participants of reality television TV and radio shows should not “be caused unjustified distress or anxiety”. The decision followed a “steady rise” in complaints expressing concern about the welfare of people who take part in reality shows.
Dymond’s death raised concerns about the mental health of participants on reality TV shows, also bringing attention the confirmed and suspected suicides of two former contestants of ITV’s Love Island.
Ofcom said it would issue guidance to help broadcasters interpret and apply the new rules and invited feedback on the new rules by September 23rd.
